Dr Thomas Waite, of PHE’s extreme events team, said: “With more cold and for some snow on the way, now is the time to think ahead. Consider what you need to stock up on, do you need food or essential supplies such as medicines?

"It may be harder for some people to get out later this week when more snow arrives, so if you know someone at risk, someone with heart or lung conditions, young children or who is over 65, please take the time to check and see if there’s anything they need.

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“Also remember that we are not all used to temperatures like this so keep homes heated to at least 18 degrees. If you’re able to clear paths of snow or ice, do so.

"Everyone should keep up to date with weather forecasts so you’re not caught out. Staying well in conditions like this can be a challenge, so if you can check on someone whose health may be at risk, please do.”

Don't get caught out by the cold

The weather is the coldest it's been in parts of the UK since 2013.

Met Office chief forecaster, Andy Page, said: “This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable people and disrupt the delivery of services so it’s really important that everyone plans ahead, keeps up to date with the forecast and warnings in their area, check for local travel information and follow the advice of local authorities and health professionals."

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Derriford Hospital is currently still open and patients are being urged to attend their appointments as long as they can reach the hospital safely.

The Indigo parking team based at the hospital site has gritted the grounds to make it as safe as possible for people using the site today.

The snow at Derriford Hospital (Image: Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust)

They have also made an announcement to staff that they have accommodation available if they have concerns about getting to or from their shifts at Derriford.

Due to the Met Office’s red warning for snow in parts of Devon, which is the first time a red alert has been issued for the region, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust have put their internal major incident plan in place due to the “unprecedented” weather.

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It means all outpatient appointments, day surgery cases and other non-urgent activity has been cancelled today.

Liz Davenport, interim chief executive for the trust, said: “Due to the extreme winter weather conditions and red weather warning from the Met Office, we are putting in place our internal major incident plans, so that we can continue to support urgent and emergency services.

A cold snap is on its way after a week of mild and unsettled weather (Image: Penny Cross)

“The Met Office red warning means that people are advised not to travel, so we are cancelling all non-urgent activity today and tomorrow, including outpatient appointments and day surgery.

“We are using a fleet of 4x4s to help transport staff to and from work – including visiting people who urgently need treatment in their homes and communities. We are also appealing to any 4X4 drivers who could volunteer to support this activity over today and tomorrow to contact us on 01803 656269.